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ForestMatters, LLC

Deer Lake Trail

Kaibab National Forest, Arizona · 3 min read

Distance
3 mi
Elevation Gain
300 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Quiet high-elevation lake in the Kaibab Plateau spruce-fir forest
  • Short distance makes it an excellent half-day option
  • Fishing for stocked trout in a remote-feeling setting
  • Good wildlife habitat including waterfowl and shorebirds at the lake

Overview

Deer Lake sits in a shallow basin in the western Kaibab Plateau spruce-fir forest, tucked away from the main AZ-67 corridor at an elevation of approximately 8,800 feet. The 3-mile trail to reach it is one of the shortest hikes in the Kaibab National Forest, but the lake itself justifies the trip. Surrounded by spruce-fir forest and accessible to relatively few visitors, it offers a serene alternative to the busier recreation areas closer to the main highway.

This is the trail to choose when the North Kaibab weekend crowds feel overwhelming. The short distance means it attracts families and casual hikers, but its position off the secondary forest road keeps total visitor numbers well below the main Kaibab Plateau and Arizona Trail corridors.

Many hikers carry 1-2 liters of water for this distance; the lake water requires treatment; individual needs vary. The altitude at nearly 9,000 feet means UV exposure is elevated relative to lower-elevation desert trails, so sun protection matters even on a short walk.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.0: From the trailhead, the path heads east through dense spruce-fir forest at high plateau elevation. The canopy is full and the forest floor shows the characteristic mushroom diversity of moist high-elevation forest in late summer. The grade is nearly flat in this section.

Miles 1.0 to 1.5: A gentle climb over a low ridge precedes the descent to the lake basin. The lake comes into view as the trail crests the ridge and drops toward the water. Waterfowl are often visible on the lake from this first vantage point.

Miles 1.5 to 3.0 (lake and return): Explore the lake shoreline via use paths before retracing the route to the trailhead. Fishing access points ring the lake's eastern shore. The shorebird activity in early morning makes this one of the better birding locations on the West Kaibab.

When to Visit

Mid-May through October. This trail follows the same seasonal window as the rest of the North Kaibab unit. The lake is particularly enjoyable in June when snowmelt keeps the water level high and the surrounding vegetation is at peak green.

July and August bring afternoon storms; start early and plan to be back at the trailhead before afternoon clouds build.

What to Bring

  • Water: many hikers carry 1-2 liters; lake water requires treatment; individual needs vary
  • Fishing gear if planning to fish (Arizona license required)
  • Rain layer for afternoon storms
  • Bug spray for early summer visits when mosquitoes are active near the lake
  • Binoculars for birding at the lake

This is a good trail for introducing younger hikers to high-country hiking and Leave No Trace 7 principles. The short distance and clear destination make it manageable for children.

Practical Details

No permit or fee required as of 2026. The America the Beautiful Pass covers applicable USFS day-use fees at nearby areas. Veterans should check veteran benefits in national forests for pass programs.

Campfire restrictions apply seasonally. The lake environment is particularly sensitive; do not camp within 200 feet of the shoreline.

Getting There

From AZ-67: Approximately 5 miles south of Jacob Lake, look for the signed Forest Road 422 junction west of the highway. Follow FR 422 approximately 3 miles to the Deer Lake Trailhead. The road is gravel and passable for standard vehicles.

Check current road status with the North Kaibab Ranger District. See checking conditions before you go for pre-trip planning resources.

Trailhead Parking

Deer Lake Trailhead on Forest Road 422 west of AZ-67. Small gravel lot for 8-10 vehicles. No facilities.

← Back to Kaibab National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Deer Lake good for fishing?
Deer Lake is a small, high-elevation lake that offers fishing for rainbow trout. An Arizona fishing license is required. The lake is much smaller than Big Lake in the Apache-Sitgreaves but offers a quieter, more remote atmosphere.
Can I camp at Deer Lake?
No designated campground exists at Deer Lake. Dispersed camping is permitted in the surrounding national forest. The nearest developed campground is DeMotte, approximately 10 miles east on AZ-67.
Is this trail accessible for beginners?
Yes. The 3-mile distance and minimal elevation gain make Deer Lake one of the more accessible hikes on the North Kaibab unit. The lakeside destination adds clear appeal.
When does Deer Lake become accessible?
The lake is accessible when AZ-67 opens in mid-May and the access forest roads are passable. In snow years, the area may hold snow into early June.